Internal thoracic vein

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Vein draining the chest wall and breasts

Blood vessel

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The internal thoracic vein (also known as the internal mammary vein) is a vessel that drains the chest wall and breasts. It is a paired vein, meaning there is one on each side of the body.

Anatomy

The internal thoracic vein runs alongside the internal thoracic artery, which it accompanies. It originates from the superior epigastric vein and ascends along the inner surface of the anterior chest wall. The vein then drains into the brachiocephalic vein.

Tributaries

The internal thoracic vein receives blood from several smaller veins, including:

• Superior epigastric vein
• Musculophrenic vein
• Anterior intercostal veins

Clinical significance

The internal thoracic vein is often used in coronary artery bypass surgery as a conduit for grafting. Its proximity to the internal thoracic artery makes it a convenient choice for surgeons.

See also

• Internal thoracic artery
• Brachiocephalic vein
• Superior epigastric vein
• Musculophrenic vein
• Anterior intercostal veins